American Elections and Iran

Speculation is rising, in the media and among think tanks, regarding the possible impact of the American presidential election, on future American policy towards Iran. In the overview of the candidate positions, ballotpedia summarizes “Hillary Clinton supports the Iran nuclear deal, taking a ‘distrust and verify’ approach”, whereas “Donald Trump opposes the deal saying he would re-negotiate or dismantle it”.

Perhaps these reflections of past statements led to the most poignant piece in this regard, the Reuters article titled frustrated Europe hopes Clinton win can spur elusive Iran deals. The article gives voice to so called European businesspeople, or more precise “European interested parties”, who hope that a Democratic win will remove “political clouds”, enabling them to pocket more profits. As if “political clouds” are the problem.

It would seem that this above described “split” between the two candidates on the Iranian issue, is quite superficial. It may reflect past statements by the two candidates, but ignores further developments.

It would seem that even amidst the hot blooded personal confrontations and the many discordant issues, one item unites both parties of the House and both candidates. That issue is the need for continued sanctions, a robust policy towards and a demand for more accountability from Iran, following the elections.